Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace is one of America’s most historic and respected bourbon distilleries, with a legacy that spans over two centuries of continuous operation. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, on the banks of the Kentucky River, the distillery has produced whiskey since at least 1775, making it one of the longest-running distilling sites in the United States. Today, it stands as both a working distillery and a living monument to bourbon’s rich heritage.

The distillery site has operated under many names, including Old Fire Copper (O.F.C.) and George T. Stagg, before officially becoming Buffalo Trace in 1999. The name pays homage to the ancient buffalo migration trails that crossed the Kentucky River, paths that led early settlers and distillers to the fertile land and abundant limestone-filtered water that remain vital to whiskey-making today.

Buffalo Trace produces a wide range of bourbons and American whiskeys, including its flagship Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon, as well as some of the most sought-after names in the whiskey world, such as Eagle Rare, Blanton’s, W.L. Weller, Elmer T. Lee, and the legendary Pappy Van Winkle range. Many of these come from different mash bills and warehouses on site, demonstrating the distillery’s depth of expertise.

The flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon uses a mash bill predominantly of corn, with rye for spice and malted barley for balance. The whiskey is aged for around 8 years in new, charred American oak barrels, stored in multi-storey brick warehouses that help regulate temperature and humidity for consistent maturation.

One hallmark of Buffalo Trace’s production is its focus on innovation alongside tradition. The distillery operates an ongoing Experimental Collection, where small-batch whiskeys are produced using alternative mash bills, unique barrel toasts and chars, different warehouse locations, and varied ageing conditions. These experiments are carefully documented, contributing to a greater understanding of how different factors influence bourbon’s character.

In flavour, Buffalo Trace Bourbon is known for its approachable yet complex profile. The nose offers vanilla, toffee, and a hint of fresh mint. On the palate, rich caramel and molasses meet notes of dark fruit, spice, and oak. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering sweetness and gentle warmth. This balance makes it versatile enough to enjoy neat, over ice, or in classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Whiskey Sour.

Buffalo Trace has received countless awards, including repeated “Distillery of the Year” titles and gold medals at international spirits competitions. The demand for its premium and limited-release bottlings often outpaces supply, making some expressions highly collectible.

Our Buffalo Trace selection showcases the distillery’s craftsmanship, from the everyday excellence of the flagship bourbon to rare and exclusive releases for enthusiasts and collectors. Whether you’re new to bourbon or a seasoned whiskey drinker, Buffalo Trace offers a direct link to America’s distilling heritage, a combination of history, innovation, and quality that continues to define Kentucky bourbon at its finest.